Elle Macpherson Opens Up About Alcoholism Struggles and 20 Years of Sobriety in New Memoir

Elle Macpherson has unveiled intimate details of her struggles with alcoholism and her subsequent path to sobriety in a compelling chapter from her memoir, "elle: Life, Lessons & Learning to Trust Yourself." The 60-year-old Australian supermodel, famously known as 'The Body,' candidly recounts her experiences while highlighting the contrast between her public persona and private reality.

Macpherson's Hidden Struggles with Alcoholism

In her memoir, Macpherson shares that despite appearing to lead a perfect life, she faced significant internal challenges. The model often experienced blackouts and turned to vodka shots after putting her sons, Cy and Flynn, to bed. She acknowledged the facade of her life, stating that while everything seemed fine on the outside, her struggle with alcoholism was deeply rooted.

The Impact of Motherhood and Relationship Pressures

Macpherson was in a relationship with financier Arpad 'Arki' Busson, who frequently traveled for work. This left her alone to care for their sick son, Flynn. Even after a severe bout of pneumonia, she rushed back to work to validate her capacity as both a mother and partner. She described her descent into a harmful routine of drinking to maintain her image, illustrating the cyclical nature of her struggles.

Coping Mechanisms and Daily Routine

Amid her challenges, Macpherson resorted to alcohol as a means to cope with anxiety. Her evenings often involved drinking vodka in solitude after putting her children to bed, during which she would engage in household chores while battling with her mental state. She maintained a semblance of normalcy and organization to hide her struggles, even as she suffered from intense physical and emotional distress.

Rising Concerns from Loved Ones

Those close to Macpherson began to notice her declining condition, with her naturopaths being among the first to suggest rehabilitation. Despite their concerns, she preferred to spend time in Ibiza with family rather than seek immediate help, which ultimately led to a relapse as she succumbed to the temptation of alcohol.

Rehabilitation Journey and Realizations

Once in rehab in Arizona, she faced humiliation and anger at being classified alongside those struggling with anorexia due to her appearance. However, she later recognized the validity of this classification, understanding her controlling behaviors regarding her diet. Throughout her rehab experience, she chose to go by 'Mac' to avoid drawing attention.

Celebrating Sobriety and Reflecting on Life Changes

Last year, Macpherson marked 20 years of sobriety, emphasizing her gratitude for the changes in her life. She reflected on her decision to stop drinking in 2003, recognizing that alcohol hindered her ability to be fully present within her life. Macpherson clarified that she does not advocate sobriety for others, preferring to empower individuals to make their own choices regarding their lifestyles.